Page 77 - (DK) The Dog Encyclopedia

WORKING DOGS

Akbash Central Asian Shepherd Dog

HEIGHT 27–31in (69–79cm) HEIGHT 26–31in (65–78cm) Variety of colors
WEIGHT 75–130lb (34–59kg) WEIGHT 88–174lb (40–79kg)
LIFE SPAN 10–11 years LIFE SPAN 12–14 years

A powerful Turkish breed developed for guarding flocks, Akbash- The nomadic herdsmen of Central Asia—the regions now
type dogs have probably been around for several thousands of years. known as Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and
Used on ranches in North America as a livestock and property Kyrgyzstan—have used dogs of this type to protect their flocks for
guard, the Akbash is best suited to a working life and needs skilled hundreds of years. Once bred selectively in the former USSR, this
handling to prevent behavior problems. There are two coat types: rare breed needs early socialization. There are two coat types: short-
medium-haired and long-haired. haired and long-haired.
Shorter hair Moderate stop
on face
Heavily Weatherproof, White with
feathered tail White coarse coat Dense coat lemon markings

Biscuit
Powerful
shoulders
Typical mastiff-
type body
Feathering on Large,
back of legs LONG- rounded
HAIRED feet
SHORT-HAIRED

Caucasian Shepherd Dog Leonberger

HEIGHT 26–30in (67–75cm) Variety of colors HEIGHT 28–31in (72–80cm) Sandy
WEIGHT 99–154lb (45–70kg) WEIGHT 99–170lb (45–77kg) Red
LIFE SPAN 10–11 years LIFE SPAN Over 10 years May have white markings.

Developed from various large dogs, this shepherd dog was Named after the Bavarian town of Leonberg, this breed was
once used to guard flocks in the Caucasian regions. In the 1920s developed in the mid-19th century by crossing a St. Bernard (see
selective breeding of this dog began in the former USSR and p.76) with a Newfoundland (see p.79). After the two World Wars,
continued later in Germany. An excellent watchdog, it requires Leonbergers had almost disappeared, but the breed has recovered
careful handling if it is to be a good companion. and is popular for its splendid looks and friendly nature.
Massive head
Feathered tail,
lighter on Thick, fairly
Heavily Sable underside long coat
feathered tail

Mane on neck
and chest
Dark muzzle
Black mask

Deep
chest
Lion-gold
Feet thickly Feathered
Dense, coarse insulated with forelegs
coat stands white hair
away from body
PUPPY

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